Is finding time to pursue your extensive list of hobbies difficult? Many of us have an endless to-do list of creative activities. Sometimes, we wish we could press a button, and our work would instantly appear on a digital screen, something like AI-generated art does. However, the benefits of hobbies and continuing to create work that is handmade make blocking out some time for your hobbies each week worthwhile.
Benefits of Pursuing a Hobby: High School’s Vision of a Utopian Future
Even by the end of the 20th century, few of us could imagine the capabilities of computers or their impact on our lives. But way back in the 1930s, it was predicted that shorter workdays and more extended vacations would become the norm due to technology. By the 1970s, that prediction seemed to be coming true. Some school districts took notice and started incorporating hobbies into our education. After all, with all this extra time, people would need engaging hobbies to fill their free time.
During my high school years, the administration borrowed an idea from a nearby university. It implemented a month-long break between semesters, aptly named Interim. The program aimed to introduce us to various hobbies and crafts, preparing us for the ample leisure time the future was predicted to offer.
I sincerely wish my son’s high school had implemented a similar program. Even though we may not have all that extra time right now, lifelong hobbies can enhance our creativity, reduce stress, foster connections with others, and offer numerous health benefits.
Interim Taught the Benefits of Hobbies
The entire month of January was dedicated to this program, devoid of math and English classes. Our day was divided into two blocks: a three-hour morning block and a two-hour afternoon one. We had the opportunity to choose from a wide range of activities, including pottery, gymnastics, running, basketball, painting, ceramics, crafts, and sewing, to name a few.
In one of my favorite craft classes, we made ice cube candles, padded picture frames, and bread dough ornaments. Then, in a ceramics class, I crafted a rather unattractive clay box that occupied a spot on my mom’s dresser for many years, filled with keys to long-forgotten possessions.
I even took an entire month off one year, flying to California to visit my aunt and uncle in San Diego. I experienced Disneyland for the first time and rode Space Mountain with my uncle. They also took me to various museums, which my 13-year-old self declared dumb, stupid, and boring. Nonetheless, I maintained a journal of the places I visited. Upon returning to school, I submitted it to the vice principal to receive school credit for my vacation. After all, the future promised ample time for travel, so it was best to start early.
My favorite class, however, was led by a teacher from a local modeling and finishing school. She taught us how to walk gracefully and exit a car with elegance. But unfortunately, she also informed my best friend and me that we lacked the height required to become fashion models, shattering our dreams. The highlight of the class was a field trip to a downtown department store, where we enjoyed lunch at The Tea Room on the top floor. Live fashion models paraded past us as we savored our Frango mint milkshakes. It was at that moment I decided that if I couldn’t be a fashion model, I could at least become a designer. And now, I am one – designing outfits for my beloved dolls!
Benefits of Hobbies Outweigh our Lack of Time
Computers have taken over much of the workload as predicted. However, companies have opted to reduce their workforce or expand profits rather than reduce hours while maintaining pay. As a result, the importance of hobbies in reducing stress and boosting creativity has increased.
This dream of vast quantities of free time hasn’t happened yet. For many, work weeks are longer, not shorter, and until the last couple of years, people commuted farther distances. Also, the retirement age is still climbing higher and higher.
However, a utopian dream of an easy life with lots of free time seemed like our possible future back then. After all, we’d grown up watching the Jetsons!
The future is here, and we don’t have the fantastic amount of extra time they promised. Yet. Instead, we have the internet, social media, and cell phones to fill up our small amounts of free time. So if the plan is that we will spend all our extra time in virtual reality games in the future, I’ll pass.
I plan on spending more time with my hobbies and creating things I make myself rather than sitting in front of a computer screen all day wearing a virtual headset. Also, I’d rather work on my sewing, walk in the forest, or work in my garden.
How to Overcome Hobby Overwhelm
Finding time for hobbies has become more challenging than ever. Sometimes we must sacrifice a favorite TV show or weekend plans with friends. In recent years, however, we have spent more time at home, which has been great for introverts but not so much for those who love socializing.
Many of our hobbies and interests center around various activities. For example, doll-related hobbies can range from sewing and knitting to sculpting and even casting your own dolls. In addition, these pastimes help us connect with others who share the same interests through forums.
I remember being excited when I learned you could sculpt and cast dolls!
What is Stopping You From Pursuing a Hobby?
Is it disorganization or needing more time to learn new skills? Perhaps you are struggling to master a new tool or software. For example, did you upgrade to a new machine but still don’t know how to use it? As a result, you can’t try out that cute new pattern you just downloaded. Or are you trying to create digital art but don’t understand the complex program?
I have all of those problems also, and to the nth degree! When you decide to make dolls, you must become a painter, castor, sewer, knitter, wig maker, shoe designer, photographer, and more. And then keep all of those supplies organized. But these are also great hobbies to make a little extra money. To buy more dolls, of course!
Whatever the case, remember that these activities can also be great hobbies to make a little extra money, further emphasizing the benefits of pursuing a hobby.
Finding Time for Hobbies: 5 Tips
- Organize your supplies to avoid wasting precious craft time looking for materials. Create a special place for crafts, even if it’s just a room in the basement.
- Get your family to pitch in with household chores, saving time in the long run.
- Create a schedule that includes time for your hobbies.
- Prepare larger meals and freeze or can the leftovers for quick dinners.
- Consider telecommuting, which can free up more time for hobbies.
In conclusion, the benefits of hobbies encompass not only stress relief and creativity boosts but also social connections and potential income. As you work to find time for your hobbies and overcome hobby overwhelm, remember the importance of hobbies in reducing stress and leading a more fulfilling life.
I’d love it if you would comment below, share your hobbies and interests, and give any tips on making time for creativity!